Positive Cheering from the Sidelines

Spring sports are in full swing and many young people are looking ahead to summer and even fall sports!  As we sit on the sidelines or in the bleachers, we want to be supportive and cheer on the players. But sometimes our cheering can unintentionally have an impact that’s not quite what we’re aiming for. 

We want to ensure that we’re letting young people play their own game and give them the space and autonomy to do so. The next time you’re at a sporting event, try to avoid cheering that gives advice – such as “Pass the ball!” – and instead provide encouragement without direction so that the young person is able to be their own proactive player and make their own decisions.

Here are some examples you can use next time you’re cheering from the sidelines:

“Great pass!”
“Way to go!”
“Great effort!”
“Good hustle!”

Take a look at this article from Positive Coaching Alliance on "No-Directors Cheering" for more examples you can use to cheer on a young athlete.